Book Review: The Brew Your Own Big Book of Clone Recipes: Featuring 300 Homebrew Recipes From Your Favorite Breweries from the editors of Brew Your Own

The Brew Your Own Big Book of Clone Recipes: Featuring 300 Homebrew Recipes From Your Favorite Breweries from the editors of Brew Your Own Magazine offers readers 300 of BYO’s best clone recipes for recreating favorite commercial beers together in one book. Inside you'll find dozens of IPAs, stouts, and lagers, easily searchable by style. The collection includes both classics and newer recipes from top award-winning American craft breweries including Brooklyn Brewery, Deschutes, Firestone Walker, Hill Farmstead, Jolly Pumpkin, Modern Times, Maine Beer Company, Stone Brewing Co., Surly, Three Floyds, Tröegs, and many more.  Classic clone recipes from across Europe are also included. Whether you're looking to brew an exact replica of one of your favorites or get some inspiration from the greats, this book is your new brewday planner.

The Brew Your Own Big Book of Clone Recipes is well organized and offers readers well written recipes and suggestions for how to make the results even closer to their personal tastes. The recipes are divided into chapters on beer style (i.e. pale ale, British-style, pilsners, winter beers, and so on). The step by step instructions are clear and easy to follow for anyone that has the basics of home brewing down, but might be a little harder for those just starting in the process. The information offered might be able to be gathered by going through past issues of the magazine and searching online, but having all the recipes and information in one book with plenty of pictures and additional information that can help a home brewer hone their craft is very useful. I think any home brewer could benefit from owning, or at least reading, this book and it just might be the perfect gift for serious or emerging ho,me brewers looking to expand their knowledge.

Early Book Review: The Dollar Kids by Jennifer Richard Jacobson, Ryan Andrews

The Dollar Kids is a middle grade novel written by Jennifer Richard Jacobson, with illustrations by Ryan Andrews. It is currently scheduled for release on August 7 2018. Twelve-year-old Lowen Grover, a budding comic-book artist, is still reeling from the shooting death of his friend Abe when he stumbles across an article about a former mill town giving away homes for just one dollar. It not only seems like the perfect escape from Flintlock and all of the awful memories associated with the city, but an opportunity for his mum to run her very own business. Fortunately, his family is willing to give it a try. But is the Dollar Program too good to be true? The homes are in horrible shape, and the locals are less than welcoming. Will Millville and the dollar house be the answer to the Grovers’ troubles? Or will they find they’ve traded one set of problems for another? 

The Dollar Kids is a story that tackles many issues, and deals with them all in realistic ways as well as heart and hope. Lowen is ready for a new start, and the idea of moving to a new town, fixing up a house, and starting a business seems like just the thing to get him mind of the tragedy that has made him give up drawing and harbor guilt. Things just do not go as plan, they all need to play sports, some look down on them while others seem to want nothing but for them to fail and leave. Thankfully, there are also some people in town that wish them well, and want to save the town. Family conflicts, sibling issues, fitting in, and being true to yourself are all huge parts of the story. I have to admit that it took me a while to become invested in the story. The set up was good, the story line interesting. However, I think the beginning pacing was a little slow, because I put the book down two or three times before finally finishing it. It was not a problem with the actual story, which I found interesting. However, I think the story did a lot more telling than showing, and I did not feel invested in the characters and town until at least half way through the story.  I think that is a shame, because by the time I read the last page I was not quite ready to leave Millville and the people that live there. By that point I wanted more, but it took way too long for me to care deeply about the characters and their individual stories.

The Dollar Kids is a story with plenty of heart, and that handles some big issues with grace and hope. I enjoyed the read and think it will be a middle grade staple in school and public libraries. 

Book Review: The Undercover Billionaire (Tate Brothers) by Jackie Ashenden

The Undercover Billionaire is the third book in the Tate Brothers series by Jackie Ashenden. I have not read any of the previous books. While those that have will have a better understanding of some of the characters and family dynamics, newcomers will be about to understand the couple focused on in the story.

 

Navy SEAL Wolf Tate is on a mission of vengeance. He’s willing to do whatever it takes to infiltrate the lair of his arms-dealing enemy—and rescue the mother he never knew. To do this, he’ll need more than his father’s fortunes or his brothers-in-arms. He must find a way to kidnap his enemy’s daughter for leverage. There’s just one problem: She is also one of Wolf’s closest friends—and the only person that ever really listened. For years, Olivia de Santis has been waiting for Wolf to take her in his arms and make her dreams come true. But she never imagined that he’d sneak into her bedroom one night, or take her as his hostage. Olivia knows she should resist him—and stay loyal to her own family. But how can she deny the burning justice of Wolf’s mission, and the blazing desire in his eyes—even if giving into the heat of the moment can put her in grave danger? 

The Undercover Billionaire is a book with a decent set up, but one that fell flat for me. Wolf has been told for years that he is just muscle, and despite knowing how cruel and manipulative his father and de Santis can be- he thinks he is somehow not being used by either. Olivia is sweet, and while smart with computers and books seems to be completely lacking common sense and self preservation. She is twenty eight, never been kissed and never suspecting that her father is a weapon dealing nightmare willing to force her to marry a man that she does not want- but she is almost willing to do so. I really wanted her to have a little backbone and stand up for herself. She does, for about three seconds, but is way too willing to trust her father and Wolf way more than a person should in her circumstances. Wolf is just stubborn and while at times caring, other times he is just as willfully blind as Olivia. The sex is steamy, but the characters were too lost in their own versions of the world for me to like or care about them. 

The Undercover Billionaire left me disappointed. If you are reading for steam, then you got that here. If you are reading for characters and love, not so much.

Early Book Review: Awesome by Craig Shuttlewood

Awesome is a picturebook by Craig Shuttlewood which is currently scheduled for release on August 1 2018. Marvin the moose and Woody the beaver are best friends. But their friendship is tested when Marvin does something totally AWESOME and Woody remains ordinary. The other forest animals now adore Marvin, calling in his new superhero services to help right wrongs, solve problems, and fix trouble. They even build a statue in his honor! Woody watches with envy, and often helping his friend, but hatching a not-so-awesome plan to put all eyes on him. Can Woody and Marvin save their friendship? 

Awesome is a lively picturebook about jealousy, friendship, and forgiveness. I love the illustrations, they are bright and bold- adding a great deal to the story. Woody is feeling left behind and forgotten, and his plans to be noticed go in the opposite direction than he might have hoped. While he might not have done the right things to get attention, when Marvin sat down and talked to him about it I like tat he explained how he was feeling, and apologized for the trouble his actions caused. I think this is a relatable story,. and one that shows how much trouble could be avoided by talking about our feelings, and that owning our mistakes is the right thing to do. The story is heartfelt and a pleasure visually and as a whole.

Book Review: Dirty-Talking Cowboy (Kinky Spurs) by Stacey Kennedy

Dirty-Talking Cowboy is the first book in the Kinky Spurs series by Stacey Kennedy. Emma Monroe has returned to River Rock, Colorado, after the death of her grandmother. Now she’s inherited a farm full of abused animals and she’s working as a waitress at the local hotspot, Kinky Spurs. The last thing Emma wants in her life is a man, as she’s still recovering from a recent heartbreak. But when a sensual and powerful cowboy, Shep Blackshaw enters her life, Emma begins to want things she shouldn't. Shep knows sex shouldn’t be on his mind. He’s got a world of responsibility on his shoulders. He’s attempting to save his late father’s cattle ranch, Blackshaw Cattle Company, from foreclosure. But Emma’s heated reactions to his touch make ignoring her impossible. She’s the perfect distraction to make him forget that his father’s company is a sinking ship. While their nights only heat up, soon emotions become tangled into the mix. 

Dirty-Talking Cowboy is a hot a steamy romance, with an alpha hero that is a little too perfect. Shep is sexy, a hard worker, and while he is controlling he also takes the time to be sure of the emotional well-being of those he cares about. I love that he can be slow and gentle in his conversations and takes care of those around him, and hat consent is a priority in bedroom- that is not always the case with strong alpha heroes. Emma is sweet and smart, reeling from heartbreak and the loss of her grandmother. Changes and grief are taking up most of her head-space as she tries to heal and move forward. I liked that they are both pretty self aware of their issues, and what they need. I like that they talk through the issues and do not force things. The attraction and chemistry between them is powerful, maybe a bit too much to be real but since I read for escape I was fine with that. My biggest problem with the book is that Shep is too perfect. He is strong, willing to work hard, is patient even when he needs to struggle with it. Emma is fairly perfect too, but at least she is struggling with trust, and allowing herself to feel. I enjoyed the secondary characters as much as the main players, and look forward to the next two books in the series, since the story made the next couples pretty obvious. Now, I really need to read those books because I want to see them find their happy endings. 

Dirty-Talking Cowboy is a steamy contemporary romance. The sex is steamy, the characters a little too perfect, but the ride is highly entertaining and well worth the read. 

Book Review: The Colors of History by Clive Gifford, Marc-Etienne Peintre

The Colors of History is a children's non fiction book written by Clive Gifford and illustrated by Marc-Etienne Peintre. Color has played an important part in history, in unexpected ways that most of us never realize. Why did Roman emperors wear purple? Which color is made from crushed beetles? What green pigment might be used to build super-fast computers of the future? Find out the answers to these and many more questions in this vibrant exploration of the stories behind different colors, and the roles they've played throughout history. From black to white, and all the colors in between, every shade has a story to tell. Each color group is introduced with a stunning and interpretive double-page spread illustration, followed by illustrated entries exploring the ‘colorful’ history of particular shades. With vivid, thought-provoking illustrations and engaging bite-sized text, this book is a feast for the eyes and the mind, ready to enthrall budding artists and historians alike.

The Colors of History is a well organized collection of information about the importance and roles of color in the world in general, and history in particular. The combination of well done illustrations and interesting information about the different shades of yellow, red, purple, blue, and green. Shades of black, white, and those grays in between is included at the end just prior to the index. I found the information to be well researched and written. I think it will capture the interest and attention of middle grade and older readers. I knew some of the information, but enjoyed the read and learning new bits of information very much. I found the read to be fascinating and entertaining, and I think that many others will enjoy it as well. 

Book Review: I Flipping Love You (Shacking Up) by Helena Hunting

I Flipping Love You is the third book in the Shacking Up series of contemporary romances by Helena Hunting. I have read the first book in the series, but somehow missed the second. You do not need to read the books in order or as a series to fully enjoy the reads. 

Rian Sutter grew up with the finer things in life. Spending summers in The Hamptons was a normal occurrence for her until her parents took everything years ago. Now Rian and her sister are getting their life, and finances, back on track through real estate. Not only do they buy and sell houses to the rich and famous, but they finally have the capital to flip their very own beachfront property. But then she catches the attention of a sexy stranger who comes with his own set of complications.  Pierce Whitfield doesn’t normally demo kitchens, install dry wall, or tear apart a beautiful woman’s dreams. He’s just a down-on-his-luck lawyer who needed a break from the city and agreed to help his brother work on a few homes in the Hamptons. When he first meets Rian, the attraction is undeniable. But when they start competing for the same pieces of prime real estate, the early sparks turn into full-blown fireworks. 

I Flipping Love You is a book that started off great. I loved the confrontation the starts the entire story, and loved Rian's personality and wit. Pierce spoke to me a little less than Rian, but his determination and self awareness kept me on board. I was a little disappointed with how quickly Rian when from banter and refusal to having sex on the beach, but just because it would not have been my choice it does not mean it could not happen. The complications with our characters arguing over real estate and business were well handled, at least until neither Rian or Pierce were actually paying any attention to it- and then it because suddenly important again. Getting caught up is normal, not expecting the other half to be just as oblivious bothered me a little. I do not know why, but this little things added up and just left me enjoying the story less than I expected, I still liked the characters, but I was not engaged with their story or left wanting more when I turned the last page. It was still enjoyable, and plenty steamy, but it just did not hold up to what I expected or hoped for. 

I Flipping Love You is a book that fans oft he author and series will definitely want to read. However, if you have not read Hunting's work before, do not start here because it is a good book, but not her best. 

Book Review: Plantopedia: A Celebration of Nature's Greatest Show-Off by Adrienne Barman

Plantopedia: A Celebration of Nature's Greatest Show-Off by Adrienne Barman offers readers a collection of amazing plants from all over the world, chosen for their unique traits and characteristics, with fun illustrations by Adrienne Barman. Meet the 'evergreens', the 'edibles' and the 'elderly' plants that have outlived the dinosaurs in this alphabetically-ordered encyclopedia. Filled with fascinating flowers, curious crops and wonderful weeds, this book will keep young explorers busy for hours. 

Plantopedia: A Celebration of Nature's Greatest Show-Off is a well organized and amusingly illustrated collection of plants from around the room. The books are grouped in to eclectic groups based on color or other important characteristics. Some of the groups include big eaters, air fresheners, poisoners, rock plants, dyes, impostors, salads, and tasty fruits. While I would not call it encyclopedic in any way I found the grouping to be well done although it is far from complete. I think the cute illustrations and small bits of additional information could capture the attention of young readers. While I enjoyed some of the images and labeled pictures, I was not impressed with the selection, but think it could be interesting for young readers with a love of plants.  

Book Review: Royal Secret by M. Knopik

Royal Secret by M. Knopik is a novella about two men with secrets. To save his kingdom from war, Raven married Prince Nicholas—as a princess. But on their wedding night, instead of his secret being revealed, Nicholas refuses to have any intimate contact with his new bride, and even goes out of his way to maintain distance between them. To make matters worse, the queen makes increasing demands for an heir. When Raven overhears Prince Nicholas ask his best friend, Lord Henry to father the child, he panics. He turns to the only person he can trust—his chambermaid, Emilia. With her help, he soon learns that the Prince has a secret of his own.

Royal Secret is short and sweet in its way. I liked the fact that the main characters got to know each other slowly, and that there is more than just a single story line happening in the novella. I loved getting to know Raven and discover his secrets, and the connection and care for Emilia. I was a little disappointed that he was not trans but in the position of pretending to be female because of family obligations. I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to explore those boundaries, but the story was still an interesting read. I do feel like we learned very little about Nicholas in comparison with Raven and I would have liked to know more about his emotions and thoughts- rather than just what I can cobble together from observations.

Royal Secret is a good, quick read for those looking for a different male/male romance. The Goodreads information on this book labels it as the start of a series, but I have yet to find more.

Book Review: Walking in the City with Jane: A Story of Jane Jacobs by Susan Hughes, Valerie Boivin

Walking in the City with Jane: A Story of Jane Jacobs is a non fiction picturebook written by Susan Hughes and illustrated by Valerie Boivin. From the time she was a young girl, Jane Jacobs' curious mind made her a keen observer of everything around her. When she grew up, she moved to New York City, a place full of new wonders for her to explore. It was there she realized that, just like in nature, a city is an ecosystem. So, when city planner Robert Moses proposed creating highways through the city that would destroy neighborhoods and much of what made New York great, Jane decided she couldn't let it happen. She stood up to the officials and rallied her neighbors to stop the plans and even got arrested! Jane's bravery and ideas had a huge influence on urban planning that is still being felt today.

Walking in the City with Jane: A Story of Jane Jacobs is an engaging informational picture book, offering readers a fictionalized story of the life of Jane Jacobs, one of the world's greatest urban thinkers and activists. I think the stylized art gives a feel for the time and location, it is interesting and enjoyable to look at. I found the story to be well told and interesting. I think young readers that love cities, streets, and exploring will fully enjoy the read. I think those that get bored easily in school, and are always looking to explore, will relate to Jane and her story. Nature loves and those interested in ecosystems and how cities and the world in general work will also be captivated by the story. I am not sure that it will be interesting to all readers, but it was well done and engaging in my opinion. At the end of the book there is a brief biography of Jane Jacobs to further inform or inspire readers.